South Thompson River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids South Thompson River |
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Thompson River's watershed
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| Country | Canada |
| Province | British Columbia |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Little Shuswap Lake 347 m (1,138 ft) 50°49′50″N 119°41′29″W / 50.83056°N 119.69139°W |
| River mouth | Thompson River Kamloops 336 m (1,102 ft) 50°40′50″N 120°20′19″W / 50.68056°N 120.33861°W |
| Length | 58 km (36 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 18,000 km2 (6,900 sq mi) |
| Tributaries |
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The South Thompson River is an important river in British Columbia, Canada. It is the southern part of the larger Thompson River. This river starts from Little Shuswap Lake near the town of Chase.
It flows for about 58 kilometers (36 miles) towards the southwest and west. The river travels through a wide valley until it reaches Kamloops. In Kamloops, it meets the North Thompson River. When these two rivers join, they form the main Thompson River. The Thompson River is the biggest river that flows into the huge Fraser River.
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About the South Thompson River
The South Thompson River is a key waterway in British Columbia. It helps connect many lakes and smaller rivers.
Where the River Flows
The river begins at the end of Little Shuswap Lake. From there, it flows through a wide, open valley. This valley is home to many communities and natural areas.
Along its path, the river is followed by important transportation routes. Highway 1, which is part of the Trans-Canada Highway, runs alongside it. The main railway line of the Canadian Pacific Railway also follows the river's course.
How It Connects to Other Waters
Little Shuswap Lake is fed by another river called the Little River. The Little River itself drains water from the much larger Shuswap Lake. Shuswap Lake gets its water from many different rivers and creeks that flow into it. This shows how all these waterways are connected.
For a long time, people thought the South Thompson River started at Shuswap Lake. But in 1982, the short river between Shuswap Lake and Little Shuswap Lake was officially named Little River. This change matched what local people had called it for many years.
Rivers That Flow Into It
Several smaller rivers and creeks flow into the South Thompson River. These are called its tributaries. They add more water to the main river as it flows.
- Chase Creek: This creek joins the South Thompson River from the south, right at the town of Chase.
- Niskonlith Creek: This creek flows into the river from the north. It is located near Niskonlith Lake Provincial Park.
- Monte Creek: This creek joins the river from the south, near the area called Monte Creek.
- Campbell Creek: This creek also flows into the South Thompson River from the south.
